The second-largest state in the U.S., Texas offers tourists 268,580 square miles and five regions for exploring, with temperatures ranging from mild to hot. In the south-central region, Lake Dam Falcon has an average annual high of 87 degrees, while in the west, Lubbock has an average annual low of 47. If a trip to the Lone Star State is on your agenda, pack lightweight clothing, but remember to protect your skin from dry humidity and the sun.

Step 1

Select the clothing outfits you want to pack. If you plan to go sightseeing, pack shorts, capris, skirts or lightweight pants. Lay out the outfits on your bed or dresser. Include a dressy outfit for dining out at one of Texas' many fine restaurants like Hannah's in Denton or Jasper's in Plano.

Step 2

Place one pair of underwear with each outfit. If your Texas trip coincides with a summer heat wave, pack an extra pair of underwear for each day, in case you want to freshen up on a hot day.

Step 3

Choose your footwear carefully. Shoes should allow your feet to breathe but protect your feet while hiking through ghost towns or visiting historical sites like the Alamo. Pack supportive sandals with a back strap or lightweight tennis shoes.

Step 4

Roll your shorts into tight cylinders. Place them in the bottom of your suitcase. Lay folded shirts and blouses on top, then fold pants and skirts in half. Put them on top. Tuck shoes along the inside of the suitcase. Pack a lightweight raincoat, even if you plan to visit hot San Antonio. The occasional thunderstorm can spring anytime of the year.

Step 5

Squeeze two bathing suits and a beach towel in your suitcase. Many hotels have swimming pools and the Texas Gulf Coast hosts many beaches.

Step 6

Carry snacks, bottled water and entertainment, like a book, if planning city-to-city road trips. Keep drinks cool by packing them in a cooler with ice. Provide children with quiet car activities like coloring books or a handheld game.

Tip

Use an online packing checklist to help you prepare for your trip.

References

About the Author

Mimi Bullock's writing reflects her love of traveling the back roads of small towns and sampling the local cuisine. As a regular feature writer for "Southern Hospitality Traveler" and journalist for "Beachin' Magazine," she gets to experience the rich heritage of the southern culture. She is also a licensed cosmetologist who has her own skin care line.